I’m in Anaheim this weekend, hanging with a bunch of librarians. It’s the annual American Library Association meeting, and I’m currently sitting in a very air conditioned hotel room right down the street from Disneyland. So far, this has been a great trip, although it would be much better if Sean were with me. I did get to sit next to a pool this afternoon, so it officially feels like summer.

And with the start of summer for reals, it’s time for Friday Favorites!

#1. What better way to kick off summer than with some serious grilling supplies? Last Sunday, we drove into the city for a visit to Olivier’s Butchery, and picked up our summer meat box: 15 pounds of steaks, sausages, and ground lamb and beef. We are set. We grilled one of the rib eyes that night for dinner, and it was fantastic.

#2. Buying yourself presents. Last Friday I knew I needed a day for myself, to unwind and rejuvenate. I needed to treat myself. I went out for breakfast and spent some time with a cup of coffee and a book. I stopped at Sephora and I went to the gym and I spent a good amount of time sitting in the spa. And I bought myself a little gift. It wasn’t expensive or fancy, but it made me feel good, like I thought I was worth it. Sometimes, you need to buy yourself presents.

#3. Cumin-roasted carrots with herb yogurt. We had these at a lovely little restaurant in San Francisco called Piccino. This might be my new favorite way to cook carrots. Tender baby carrots were coated in cumin and roasted until they were soft and buttery, and served with a creamy, cool yogurt dressing. Totally spot on, like everything else at this place.

#4. Speaking of spot on, they served me iced tea with a little bottle of simple syrup alongside, so I could sweeten the tea to my liking. I love it when restaurants make small, thoughtful gestures. It feels so gracious. And the tea was perfect.

#5. Spending time poolside. I think I’m going to squeeze in as much pool time as I possibly can this summer. And yes, those are my short and super shiny legs.

What are you loving this Friday?